Online Reporter
Danisa Masuku
BULAWAYO social media influencer and self-styled troublemaker Talent Moyo will spend another nine days in remand as State doctors examine his sanity before trial. The flamboyant online personality is growing audiences for content creators who film and share his antics that audiences love.
He appeared on 20 September before Bulawayo magistrate Barbra Maphosa, where he only confirmed the charges against him. He is expected back in court on 29 September.
Moyo was arrested two weeks ago after allegedly snatching US$150 from Bulawayo businesswoman Value Chivange along the busy 6th Avenue near the intersection of Jason Moyo and Fife Street. According to court papers, the influencer reportedly shoved his hands into Chivange’s pockets, grabbed her cash and vanished into the bustling evening crowd. None of the money has been recovered.
The influencer, known for his wild antics and no-filter videos, appeared calm in court, even flashing a cheeky grin to a crowd of supporters who had gathered to watch the proceedings. His erratic behaviour, however, raised eyebrows, prompting the magistrate to order an assessment by two State doctors before his trial can proceed.
Netizens have been buzzing with divided opinions. Some labelled him a “menace” who harasses women and should be locked up. Others defended him, insisting that while his behaviour is attention-seeking, he is not a thief.
“The way he harasses women in town is unacceptable. He needs help or jail time,” one social media user wrote. Another countered, “He is just misunderstood. He likes attention, but I don’t believe he would steal.”
Talent Moyo’s case has become the talk of Bulawayo, shining a spotlight on the antics of influencers whose wild stunts sometimes clash with the law. He will remain in custody until 22 September when doctors are expected to deliver their reports, deciding whether he will face trial or require treatment.
The city waits with bated breath to see if Talent Moyo’s mischievous charm will land him in prison or under medical supervision.
